BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : Smith Has Credentials to Be a Teacher

The addition of veteran reliever Lee Smith in the Angel bullpen has paid off in more than just saves. Smith, the all-time major league saves leader, has been a teacher and role model for rookie relievers Mike James and Troy Percival.

“One of the things they’ve learned from him is that when he’s had a bad outing, they saw he was no different,” Manager Marcel Lachemann said. “They’ve learned something about persevering for a whole season. Most everybody can handle success. . . . but you’re not going to convert every save.”

James has a 2-0 record and a 3.11 earned-run average in 29 appearances. Percival is 2-0 with two saves and a 1.75 ERA in a team-high 44 appearances.

In seven seasons in the minor leagues, James said he had never played with anyone quite as outgoing and carefree as Smith is in the clubhouse.

“I’ve met some guys like him, but he’s one of a kind, that’s for sure,” James said.

Plus, Smith has 27 saves, six more than the Angels had as a team last season.